During a recent bird watching safari in the Kruger National Park, we were lucky to see one of the most fascinating and unique hunting techniques used by a very interesting bird of prey called the African harrier hawk. While driving around, our guide suddenly stopped and pointed out a large bird sitting high up in a tree. It was identified as a juvenile harrier hawk and it looked very interested in the many weaver nests hanging from the tips of the branches, which makes it hard for any predator to reach. The next moment the harrier hawk flew straight to one of the weaver nests, clutched its talons into the nest and amazingly hanged upside down, looking very acrobatic. It opened its wings for balance while the hawk stuck its head into the nest repeatedly looking for food. During this time, numerous weavers mobbed the hawk in an attempt to chase it away. It was not long before it pulled out one chick. The hawk flew back into the tree to enjoy its meal. The African harrier hawk is known for its remarkable and different ways of hunting. The harrier hawk has specially modified tarsal joints which allow unhindered backwards and forwards movement of the leg. Harrier hawks have evolved this physical ‘quirk’ to exploit a niche not occupied by any other large raptor. Although the hawk can hunt like normal raptors, their specially modified joints in their legs allow them to actively hunt prey by climbing around on trees, rocks or cliffs. This special joint adaptation in their legs also allows the harrier hawk to effortlessly hang upside down from weaver nests.